Knoxville public officer affirms emergency orders, issues repair deadlines and approves boarding charges for multiple unsafe properties

Nicholas Bradshaw, the public officer designated by the mayor, affirmed emergency orders and issued repair or demolition deadlines for multiple properties at the City of Knoxville Public Officer Hearing on Aug. 29, 2025.

Bradshaw found several structures to be “dangerous and injurious to the health and safety of the occupants” and either affirmed existing emergency repair/demolition orders, set new repair timelines, or approved city boarding charges tied to corrective actions. The hearing included presentations by Scott Elder, neighborhood codes enforcement manager for the City of Knoxville, and statements by property owners or their representatives.

The public officer opened the hearing by explaining his authority under city code and the city'adopted building and safety codes, then heard testimony and inspected photographic evidence presented by City staff.

Most urgent actions

- 2563 Wilson Avenue: Bradshaw ordered an immediate repair/demolition action. Scott Elder told the hearing the structure was “totally burned out,” utilities had been removed and the site had signs of vagrancy; the public officer ordered corrective action immediately and warned the city could cause immediate repair or demolition if the owner failed to act.

- 0 Tillery Street (accessory structure only): Bradshaw affirmed the emergency repair/demolition order originally issued on July 23, 2025. Elder said the structure had been destroyed by fire and that the work is complete; the affirmation preserves the city's authority to lien costs under city code.

Repair orders and extensions

- 4124 West Martin Mill Pike: Scott Elder presented photographs showing a collapsed roof system and multiple structural failures and recommended a 60‑day repair/demolition order. Owner Dan Lewichuk said, “Our intent is to bring it back to life,” but said demolition or full repair within 60 days was “an impossibility.” Elder said the department could work with the owner…